Andhra Pradesh is bracing for the arrival of Cyclone Montha, a “severe” system currently intensifying over the southeast Bay of Bengal and expected to cross the coast between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam near Kakinada on the evening or night of October 28.

Forecasts warn of wind speeds between 90–110 km/h, gusts up to 110 km/h, and extremely heavy rainfall—especially in the Rayalaseema region where over 210 mm in 24 hours could occur on October 27-28.

Chief Minister Naidu held a high-level teleconference with district collectors and SPs, directing them to activate control rooms, ready shelters and ensure uninterrupted power, water and communications. He also ordered deployment of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state disaster teams, while urging fishermen to avoid the sea and schools in vulnerable districts to declare holidays on 27-28 October.

With several coastal and inland districts on high alert, residents are being asked to stay tuned to weather updates and adhere to official advice. The government emphasises life-and-property safety as the highest priority in this pre-monsoon cyclonic period.